A message from the President

Hello everyone and welcome to the Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce web site. One of Ontario’s oldest business associations, the Cornwall Chamber has been an advocate on behalf of the City’s business community for over 120 years and during that time, the Chamber has been a strong proponent for initiatives and programs that have moved our economy forward.

The first ever meeting of the Cornwall Board of Trade, with its President, prominent merchant John McIntyre was held on May 23, 1890. One wonders about the reaction from those Directors if today’s Board could present the broad range of programs the Chamber delivers and the impact it is making on the community. I am convinced they would be impressed.

The Cornwall Chamber addresses a broad range of issues and opportunities focused on the business sector community and the community at large. Home Shows, Heart of the City, and Political Advisory Cornwall are some of the activities having Chamber involvement. More recently, its intensive lobbying with respect to the Cornwall International Crossing resulted in positive movement and construction is now underway.

The Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce membership is approaching the 700 mark, significant given the total number of businesses in Cornwall to be just over 1400. I believe this to be a tribute to its advocacy impact, the commitment of its staff, and the diligent work of its Board.

As the Chamber looks ahead to 2012, it will continue to monitor the low level bridge progress along with the Toll Booth location and Customs issues. In addition, it will work, in concert with City Council and Administration in a collaborative approach to economic growth and prosperity. Combined, these activities will serve to further position our community as a preferred place to work and to live.

Rick Shaver
President of the Board